All vehicles being imported into Kenya must comply with the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) Verification of Conformity to Kenya Standards Imports Order of 2005. This order, also known as KS 1515:2000 is the “Code of Practice for Inspection of Road Vehicles and for the inspection of used vehicles for radioactive contamination and verification of odometer integrity”.
In Japan, KEBS has mandated QISJ (Quality Inspection Services Japan) and Auto Terminal to carry out pre-export verification on its behalf, and issue inspection certificates.
The main role of these inspection bodies is to ensure that vehicles being imported to Kenya conform to KS 1515:2000
How does KEBS Inspection Work?
After you buy a car in Japan, your exporter applies for inspection. The car is then taken to one of the many inspection centers around Japan. QISJ / Auto Terminal conducts physical checks and also verifies the vehicles documents. If everything is in order, they issues a certificate giving a green light to export.
You will be required to show this inspection certificate as you clear your car at the port of Mombasa.
What specifically does QISJ/ Auto Terminal Inspect?
For cars coming to Kenya, QISJ/ Auto Terminal does pre-shipment inspection, in accordance with KS 1515:2020.
Key requirements to import a vehicle to Kenya are:
• The vehicle must be right hand drive
• The vehicle must be 8yrs old from the year of first registration
• The difference between the year of manufacture and registration must be less than one year
After confirming that these 3 requirements are in order, they proceeds with physical inspection of the vehicle. Here they do:
• External Inspection.
• Internal Inspection.
• Electrical Wiring, Equipment and Lighting System Inspection.
• Radioactive contamination
• Odometer integrity check
What happens if my car fails KEBS Inspection?
In the unfortunate scenario that your car fails the inspection, QISJ/ Auto Terminal will advise your exporting company.Depending on the problem they can recommend repair at a garage (in case of engine light on, dents etc.)
There are however instances where the car cannot be exported to Kenya (such is high radiation levels, extensive rust etc.) and you might have to purchase a different unit.
It is important to import with a reliable company that will bid for quality cars in the auction, rather than waste your time and money with re-inspections.
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